Reykjavik Marathon 2026

Tired of running under a scorching sun? Afraid of heatstroke? 🌞 At the Reykjavik Marathon you can forget all the gear you need to keep cool and focus on one single goal: smashing your personal best 💨.

Yes, you read that right. Even though the event is held in August, local temperatures usually don’t rise above 14°C during the day and 8°C at night 🥶. You’ll be better off in Reykjavik than in a fridge 😂. It’s a little refreshing break waiting for you on the Icelandic coast, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The cool Atlantic air will both lower the engine temperature and push you toward the finish 🏁. The Reykjavik Marathon takes place every year (except for the 2020 edition) in the middle of summer since 1984. More than 40 years of experience shows in the organization, the aid stations 🍽️, and the event’s popularity. Spectators come out in force to cheer on the fired-up runners. What’s more, you can see endurance, speed, or a mix of the two🤩. Distances of 42 km, 21 km and 10 km are offered to discover this city full of culture and history. That way, even if you’re just starting out in running, you can raise your goal step by step and one day reach the mythical 42 km 🏆. When it comes to elevation gain, don’t expect something perfectly flat and fast, but you won’t have any legendary passes or real mountains to climb 🧗. On the agenda: 180 mD+ for the marathon distance, 80 mD+ for the half-marathon distance, and just a few peanuts for the 10 km. Finally, children also get their own race, with the "Fun Run" starting late morning. No one left out—there’s something for the whole family 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒.

And who knows—if you get a taste for the effort, you might come back every year, and your name could end up listed in the "Marathon Honors Club" 🏅. Reserved for the most loyal runners on the circuit, this club lists athletes with more than 10 participations in the Reykjavik Marathon or Half-Marathon 💪. The record to beat? It’s held by Jón Gunnar Guðlaugsson and his 28 participations. Suffice it to say that after more than 1,176 km (42 km x 28 for those less gifted at mental math 😬) through the streets of Reykjavik, you end up knowing the city center like the back of your hand 👀. 

Once you cross the finish line, treat yourself to some natural explorations nearby 🌿. The Blue Lagoon and its geothermal waters open their doors to help relax your sore muscles. The pools are outdoors and will let you fully enjoy the cool air while staying nice and warm in the water 😎. If you’re looking to stroll around the area, you can also head to Thingvellir National Park 🇮🇸: a fascinating historical and geological site not to be missed. Ideal for a family walk in the heart of nature. 🏔️ Further south in the country, you’ll also find the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, or the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Finally, if you’re looking for something that will truly take you out of your routine, hop on a sea excursion departing from Reykjavik and go watch Icelandic whales 🐳. You’ll come back from your trip with stars in your eyes ✨.

Ready to discover Iceland? The Reykjavik Marathon is just waiting for you, and promises you a change of scenery like no other! 😳